Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, 'Mortal Kombat' and 'Pearl Harbor' actor, dies at 75

Source: USA Today

"Mortal Kombat" star Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has died from complications from a stroke. He was 75.

The actor and producer died in Santa Barbara on Thursday, Dec. 4, his spokesperson Penny Vizcarra confirmed to USA TODAY.

The Tokoyo-born performer was best known for his role as Shang Tsung in multiple "Mortal Kombat" projects, including the 1995 movie, as well as on TV and video games. He also played roles in films including "Pearl Harbor," "Planet of the Apes," "47 Ronin," "Elektra" and "Memoirs of a Geisha."

After moving to the United States at a young age, Tagawa attended the University of Southern California, where he studied traditional Japanese karate.

Read more: https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2025/12/04/cary-hiroyuki-tagawa-dead-stroke/87615819007/